Liverpool's dream end to transfer window as Bradley Barcola signs and Andoni Iraola reunited

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Liverpool can hand Andoni Iraola a bulletproof squad capable of challenging for silverware by making two exciting signingsLiverpool simply can't go into the new season with their current squad as it stands. Even before Konate’s exit, the Reds were short at the back, given Joe Gomez’s recurring injury problems and Giovanni Leoni’s long-term recovery from an ACL injury.The position appears to be even more of a problem now after Gomez limped off in the pre-season friendly against Sunderland at the weekend, while new arrival Jacquet was left out as a precaution.If there are question marks over whether Liverpool have enough depth before the season has even begun, it means something is seriously wrong.

Iraola admitted as much last Monday, when he gave his second press conference and the first of Liverpool's summer 2026 pre-season tour of the USA.The manager mentioned right-back Conor Bradley’s own recovery from a serious injury and highlighted that, while he sees Bradley as the club’s long-term right back, the club are looking for a “solution” to their centre back and right-back problems. As such, it would be wise to bring in a defender who can play both positions to a high level, as Liverpool’s long list of injured defenders continue their rehabilitation.It makes the most sense for Iraola to pursue James Hill, who thrived under him at Bournemouth last season.

Hill, over the course of 29 league appearances, was one of the Cherries’ most dependable defenders.While a centre-back by trade, he made three appearances at right-back, which is a good thing for Liverpool given Iraola has earmarked Bradley as the long-term first-choice at right-back. He would be a crucial addition to the squad, adding depth and filling a homegrown spot in the Reds’ domestic and European squads.With Hill and Barcola brought in, Liverpool could go into the new campaign confident that they have a near-bulletproof squad, capable of building on from recent disappointments and striking fear in their rivals.Buy Blood Red, our monthly Liverpool FC print publication for just £3.50 by clicking here